In this section:

• Check your substances
• Therapeutic Use Exemptions

Substances

Therapeutic Use Exemptions

If an athlete is tested, any substances that an athlete may be taking must be declared in testing paperwork, in addition to any TUE that the athlete has.

Athletes may at times need to use a prohibited medication to treat a legitimate medical condition.

A Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) is an exemption that allows an athlete to use, for therapeutic purposes only, an otherwise prohibited substance or method (of administering a substance) which may be present during competition.

Apply for a TUE through ASDMAC

TUE approval may protect athletes from receiving a sanction if a prohibited substance is found in their sample.

If an athlete’s doctor has a question regarding the status of a substance, they should check the substance on the ASADA website, or call 13 000 ASADA (13 000 27232), while the athlete is in their office.

An exemption is only granted provided that there is no unfair advantage given to the athlete by taking the substance or using the method.

Before applying for a TUE, athletes must check with their sporting organisation to see if TUEs are allowed under their sport’s anti-doping policy.

Responsibility

Under the World Anti-Doping Code's strict liability policy you, the athlete, are responsible for any substance found in your body regardless of how it got there. You must check the status of any substance and method before using it.

Remember to tell your doctor that you are an athlete who is subject to doping control.

Watch a video on Therapeutic Use Exemptions [streaming FLV - 15.09MB]